I watched this movie because of Jing Yang in 'The Silicon Valley'. I'm so amused by his acting in the series, and the contrast on the poster makes me curious about the plot.
...
After watching Love Hard, I think this is more of a family movie than a romantic one. Seriously, I don't see any romantic element, except for the hike, dinner, and kiss between Natalie and Tag, which is based on fraud. Instead, I see family love and friendship.
Lin's family is harmonious and enviable, I like Josh's grandfather though he never shows up in the show, he is caring, so his son. Maybe that's why Josh is so cute and considering, and by communicating in the phone, Natalie couldn't tell that he is a Chinese guy. After they meet each other, Josh has always been friendly and supportive---sending her to the doctor after the embarrassing allergy, handing her the earphones to help her relax before the climbing, etc. I think the feelings between them is more friendly-like, and who says romantic relationships are always better than friendships? Most of them end up in awkwardness and broken hearts. People often fall in 'love' too fast before they even get to know each other.
But the ending is too 'happy ending' to me by paying tribute to Love Actually, which I'm really not a big fan of. Life isn't always perfect (not trying to be cynical here), and even if it seems perfect temporarily, it barely lasts. What are they going to do after the kiss? It's really not a good choice to introduce your gf/bf to your family at the start of the relationship, nor to bring your friend to this too soon. And by the way, Natalie do looks more compatible with Tag... (Sorry female here).
All in all, it's warm and pretty up-to-date (it even includes the upcoming Winter Olympic Games in Beijing lol).
